Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve acquired considerable knowledge. London is a vibrant city, known not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its eclectic communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student and private housing present options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, check amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel could cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones that lie outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of each train operator. Living costs in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities represent a crucial part of its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their homeland within London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness inherent in its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.